Ham and cheese is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re making a sandwich or a charcuterie board, finding the right cheese to pair with your ham is essential for achieving the perfect flavor balance. With so many different types of cheese out there, it can be tricky to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the best cheeses to pair with ham and offer tips on how to create the ultimate ham and cheese platter.
A Beginner’s Guide to Pairing Cheese with Ham
For those new to pairing ham and cheese, it’s best to start with the basics. Two classic cheeses that go well with ham are Swiss and cheddar. These cheeses are mild in flavor and won’t overpower the taste of the ham. Swiss cheese has a nutty and sweet taste, while cheddar cheese can be tangy or sharp. Both types of cheese work well in sandwiches and can also be used in a cheese and fruit platter.
Another cheese that pairs well with ham is gouda. This Dutch cheese has a creamy texture and a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. It’s a great option for those who want to add a little more depth to their ham and cheese pairing. Gouda can be sliced and added to sandwiches or melted on top of a ham and cheese panini. It also pairs well with sliced apples or pears for a sweet and savory snack.
Top 10 Cheeses That Complement Ham Perfectly
If you’re looking to branch out, here are ten other cheeses that pair well with ham:
- Brie: The soft and creamy texture of Brie makes it an ideal pairing for salty ham
- Smoked Gouda: The smoky flavor of Gouda enhances the smoky taste of ham
- Blue Cheese: The sharp and tangy flavor of Blue cheese is a perfect complement to the saltiness of ham
- Manchego: This semi-hard Spanish cheese has a nutty and buttery taste that pairs well with ham
- Goat Cheese: The tangy and creamy flavor of Goat cheese balances the rich flavor of ham
- Provolone: This Italian cheese is mild in flavor and melts easily, making it a great choice for sandwiches with ham
- Edam: This Dutch cheese has a sweet and nutty flavor that works well in a ham and cheese platter
- Emmental: Similar to Swiss cheese, this nutty-flavored cheese has a smooth texture that goes well with ham and can be used in sandwiches or melted on top of a ham and cheese toastie
- Gruyere: The Swiss cheese has a nutty and sweet taste, similar to Emmental, making it another great choice for pairing with ham
- Parmesan: The sharp and salty taste of Parmesan cheese adds a depth of flavor to ham dishes
It’s important to note that the type of ham you’re using can also affect the cheese pairing. For example, a honey-glazed ham may pair better with a milder cheese like Provolone, while a smoky ham may pair better with a stronger cheese like Blue cheese. Additionally, the way you serve the cheese and ham can also make a difference. Slicing the cheese thinly and serving it at room temperature can bring out its full flavor and enhance the pairing with ham.
From Brie to Cheddar: Which Cheese Pairs Best with Ham?
It really depends on personal preference and the dish you’re making. If you’re making a sandwich, Swiss or cheddar are great options for a classic flavor. If you’re putting together a cheese platter, incorporating a mix of hard and soft cheeses like Brie, Manchego, and Parmesan can offer a variety of flavors and textures. Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect pairing.
Another factor to consider when pairing cheese with ham is the type of ham you’re using. For example, if you’re using a smoky ham, a sharp cheddar or Gouda can complement the smokiness. If you’re using a sweeter ham, like honey ham, a milder cheese like Swiss or Havarti can balance out the sweetness.
It’s also important to consider the occasion when choosing your cheese and ham pairing. For a casual gathering, a variety of cheeses and hams can be offered for guests to mix and match. For a more formal event, a carefully curated selection of cheeses and hams can be presented in a visually appealing way, such as on a wooden board with garnishes like grapes and nuts.
A Comprehensive List of Hard Cheeses That Go Well with Ham
Hard cheeses like Parmesan, Manchego, and Edam are perfect for pairing with ham. Their nutty and slightly salty flavor adds a depth of flavor to dishes and works well in a cheese platter. Parmesan, in particular, pairs beautifully with prosciutto ham in dishes like pasta carbonara.
In addition to Parmesan, Manchego, and Edam, there are several other hard cheeses that complement ham. Gouda, for example, has a rich and buttery flavor that pairs well with both cooked and cured ham. Asiago, on the other hand, has a slightly sweet and nutty taste that works well with ham sandwiches and salads.
When selecting hard cheeses to pair with ham, it’s important to consider the intensity of the cheese’s flavor. Aged cheddar, for instance, has a sharp and tangy taste that can overpower the delicate flavor of ham. Instead, opt for milder hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Comté, which have a subtle flavor that won’t compete with the ham.
Finding the Right Cheese for Your Ham Sandwich: Tips and Tricks
When making a ham sandwich, it’s important to choose a cheese that won’t overpower the flavor of the ham. Swiss or cheddar are classic choices, but Gouda or provolone can also work well. Adding a spread like Dijon mustard or honey mustard can enhance the flavor of the sandwich and complement the cheese and ham.
Another important factor to consider when choosing cheese for your ham sandwich is the texture. A soft cheese like brie or camembert can add a creamy texture to the sandwich, while a harder cheese like Parmesan or Asiago can add a crunchy texture. It’s all about finding the right balance of flavors and textures to create the perfect sandwich.
For those who are looking for a healthier option, low-fat cheese like mozzarella or feta can be a good choice. These cheeses are lower in calories and fat, but still add a delicious flavor to the sandwich. Additionally, using whole grain bread instead of white bread can also make the sandwich healthier and more filling.
The Most Popular Cheese and Ham Combinations from Around the World
Cheese and ham pairings vary from country to country, but some popular combinations include:
- France: Croque-monsieur, a French sandwich made with ham and Gruyere cheese, is a classic French pairing
- Spain: A tapa dish called Jamon con Queso features Manchego cheese and Iberico ham
- Italy: The classic ham and cheese pizza often features mozzarella cheese and prosciutto ham
- USA: The iconic ham and cheese sandwich often includes Swiss or cheddar cheese
Other countries have their own unique cheese and ham combinations as well. In Germany, for example, a popular dish is the Schinken-Käse-Toast, which is a toasted sandwich made with ham and melted cheese. In the Netherlands, a traditional snack called Ham-Kaas soufflé features ham and Gouda cheese baked into a puff pastry. In Japan, a popular dish called Omurice features a fluffy omelette filled with ham and cheese, served over rice. No matter where you go in the world, you’re sure to find a delicious cheese and ham pairing to enjoy!
How to Create a Cheese Board That Includes the Perfect Pairings for Your Ham
Creating a cheese board with ham requires a mix of hard and soft cheeses, as well as different textures and flavors. Some ideal cheese choices for a ham and cheese board include Brie, Gouda, Parmesan, and Blue cheese. Pair with crackers, honey, and fruit for a delicious and visually stunning spread.
When selecting cheeses for your ham and cheese board, it’s important to consider the origin and flavor profile of the ham. For example, if you’re using a smoky ham, you may want to choose cheeses with a stronger flavor to complement it. Additionally, consider adding some cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, to your board for added variety. Don’t forget to label each cheese and meat selection so your guests know what they’re enjoying!
The Science Behind Why Certain Cheeses Pair Better with Ham Than Others
When it comes to pairing cheese with ham, it’s all about achieving balance. The saltiness of the ham needs to be balanced with the cheese’s flavor and texture. Soft cheeses like Brie and Goat cheese pair well with ham because their creaminess complements the saltiness of the ham. Hard cheeses like Parmesan and Manchego offer a nutty and slightly salty flavor that enhances the flavor of the ham.
Another factor to consider when pairing cheese with ham is the type of ham being used. For example, a smoky ham pairs well with a sharp cheddar cheese, while a honey-glazed ham pairs well with a mild, creamy cheese like Havarti. The sweetness of the honey glaze is balanced by the mildness of the cheese.
It’s also important to consider the occasion when choosing which cheese to pair with ham. For a casual gathering, a variety of cheeses can be offered to cater to different tastes. However, for a more formal event, it’s best to stick to classic pairings like Brie and prosciutto or Gouda and ham.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Building the Ultimate Ham and Cheese Platter
To create the ultimate ham and cheese platter, follow these steps:
- Choose a variety of cheese types, including hard, soft, and blue cheese
- Select a mix of ham types like prosciutto, cooked ham, and smoked ham
- Add crackers, bread, and fruit as a base for the cheese and ham
- Arrange the cheeses and ham on the platter, starting with the larger items and working towards the smaller items
- Consider adding spreads like honey or jam to complement the flavors of the cheese and ham
With these tips and ideas, you’ll be able to create the perfect pairing of cheese and ham for any occasion. Whether you’re making a sandwich or putting together a cheese platter, experimenting with different types of cheese can add depth and variety to your dishes. So go ahead and try out some of these combinations – you might just find your new favorite pairing.
When selecting your cheese and ham, it’s important to consider the texture and flavor of each item. For example, a creamy brie cheese pairs well with a salty prosciutto, while a sharp cheddar cheese complements a smoky ham. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different flavors and textures to create a unique and delicious platter.
Another tip to elevate your ham and cheese platter is to add some additional toppings and garnishes. Olives, nuts, and dried fruits can add a pop of color and flavor to your platter. You can also include some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to add a fragrant aroma to your platter.
